Relax Already: Supported Butterfly

After a long day of work or a challenging workout, it's nice to take a few quiet minutes to yourself, to do nothing but relax. Some people chill with a bath, a hot cup of tea, or a glass of wine, but I like to do a calming stretch. This is one of my favorites because not only does it relieve tension, it also opens my hips, which tend towards tightness.

Grab two pillows and place them side-by-side on the floor.

Lie on your back with your bum on the ground (not on the pillows). Bring your feet together and your knees out to the side. Your legs should be the only part of your body resting on the pillows. Make any adjustments you need to and then release your arms next to your torso.

Remain here for a few minutes, or as long as you'd like.

Then slowly lift your knees and bring them together. Hug them into your chest. When you're ready, roll over to one side and sit up.

This is also a good pose for relieving menstrual cramps. It feels even better if you place a vibrating heating pad on your lower belly.